Morning sunshine streamed through the parlor windows, bathing the elegant room in golden light. I smoothed my skirts nervously as I heard Queen Seraphina being announced. Despite our growing friendship, receiving the queen in my home still made my heart race.
"Isabella!" Queen Seraphina smiled warmly as she entered the parlor, her royal guard remaining discreetly in the corridor. "Thank you for receiving me on such short notice."
I rose quickly, cursing as protocol demanded. "Your Majesty, it's always an honor."
"Please, when we're alone, it's just Seraphina," she insisted, taking a seat on the sofa beside me rather than the more formal armchair I'd expected her to choose. "I desperately needed to escape the palace walls today."
Her statement surprised me. Something in her eyes looked troubled, but I knew better than to pry into royal matters. "I'm happy to provide any distraction you need. Would you like some tea?"
